Interrogative for Reproach — "Do You Command People to Righteousness?"
balagha
Level: intermediate
insha
blg-032
Definition:
Interrogative for reproach (istifham tawbikh): used to condemn and express indignation at a reprehensible act — as if the questioner is appalled and rebuking through the form of a question, without direct condemnation.
Quranic example: "Do you command people to righteousness while forgetting yourselves — and you recite the Scripture?" (Surah 2:44)
The beauty:
A direct prohibition ("do not command good while forgetting yourselves") would pass simply. The interrogative for reproach engages the listener's mind in self-condemnation: they answer "no" within themselves — and so condemn themselves. It strikes the heart far harder.
Source: Al-Balagha Al-Wadiha (p.154); Al-Kashshaf by Al-Zamakhshari (1/109)
Question: Why is the interrogative for reproach more impactful than a direct prohibition?
Answer: Because it makes the listener condemn themselves when they inwardly answer "no" — whereas a direct prohibition comes from outside and can be resisted.